There has been growing concern in the real estate industry about the escalating cost and availability of property insurance. Insurance companies have refused to insure homes that have been previously covered. In other cases, companies have decided to raise insurance premiums by a considerable amount. Provincial governments are responsible for regulation of the insurance industry, including the cost of premiums and the availability of products. The federal government’s responsibility is limited to ensuring that insurance companies are financially sound. If you’re buying a home these days, you have to think about insurance. It could affect whether or not you get the home you want.

Home insurance companies have tightened their underwriting criteria and they’re reluctant to take on risks that may not have bothered them in the past. Banks won’t approve a home loan unless there is proof of insurance.

A number of home insurance issues have been identified that can impact the transaction process. These issues can include: